Paula Deen appeared on the Today Show this morning in hopes of clearing up recent allegations of racism. While the teary interview earned the former Food Network star plenty of support from her fans, it wasn’t enough to help her hang on to her partnership with Caesars Entertainment.

Already dropped by Food Network and in danger of losing her deal with QVC, Paula Deen has suffered yet another blow; this time, Caesars Entertainment has announced that it will be parting ways with the celebrity chef. Until now, Paula’s name has been used to draw customers into four casino buffets owned and operated by Caesars.

This move comes in the aftermath of a Paula Deen Today Show interview during which the star pleaded her case. She explained to host Matt Lauer that the only time she used the ‘n’ word was thirty years ago, when a man held a gun to her head. Paula added that she did not approve of the use of racial slurs and insisted that she has not used any in three decades.

Officials at Caesars Entertainment have responded with appreciation for Paula’s official statement…but have decided that they still prefer to part ways with the celebrity. After all, the drama associated with Paula Deen makes for a PR catastrophe. Spokesperson Jan Jones Blackhurst said as much in an official statement released earlier today: “After thoughtful consideration of [the racial slur's] impact, [Caesars Entertainment and Paula Deen] have mutually decided that it is in the best interests of both parties to part ways at this time.”

We’re not sure how ’mutual’ this decision really was, but it’s doubtful whether Paula Deen had much of a choice.

Do you think Caesars Entertainment was justified in its decision to sever ties with Paula Deen? Sound off in the comments section below!

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One Response to “Today Show Appearance Does Not Help Paula Deen Keep Caesars Partnership”

Any business has a right to stop dealing with any individual, for any reason, they should choose. While I am pretty sure many others at Caesar’s have used language that is not acceptable, it is still the right of the owner’s to replace PD if they should wish to do so.